Over 204,872 applications have been submitted for the Government’s $200 Back-to-School Assistance for the 2026 school year, with payments starting this Friday and continuing through the weekend. The Ministry of Finance has confirmed that eligible parents and guardians will begin receiving their assistance payments today following a thorough vetting and verification process.
The initial distribution will benefit approximately 185,000 students, amounting to a total payout of around $37 million. For students transitioning from Year 12 to Year 13, payments will be processed once their enrollment for the upcoming academic year is confirmed. Additionally, around 10,000 applications are still undergoing verification due to issues with incomplete or incorrect information.
The Ministry of Education, in collaboration with schools, will assist parents and guardians to resolve any outstanding issues to ensure that every eligible child receives the $200 support. Those who do not receive their payment by Monday are urged to reach out for help through the Ministry of Education District Offices or the Help Desk at Waisomo House. They can also contact specific helpdesk numbers: 3220551, 3314477, 9980079, or 9986069 for further assistance.
Moreover, the Ministry of Finance has encouraged parents and guardians to utilize the assistance thoughtfully for their children’s educational needs. To protect consumers, government agencies will be monitoring local businesses to guard against price gouging and other unfair practices. This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to supporting families and ensuring that educational resources remain accessible.